Looking to the BBI techies on this one.
So I'm looking to buy a soundbar on Black Friday and I'm just curious what you guys recommend. I'm not looking to blow my neighbors out of the water. I do live in Manhattan after all. I just want something that will be clear and amplify the sound from my TV. Aa simple soundbar that won't take up too much space but will do the job.
Do I need a subwoofer? Do I need more than one channel (2.1/4.1)l? Actually, what the hell does that even mean? Also, I have a Samsung Smart TV. Does that mean I should buy a Samsung soundbar (for compatibility reasons) or does it not matter?
Thanks in advance!
So if they say two channels, it means only two speakers WITHIN the soundbar? Doesn't seem like a lot? And stupid question, but I'm assuming 4 channels mean that the soundbar will emit louder volume than a 2 channel one?
Is a subwoofer necessary? I thought it was like an external stereo system.
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The channels mean the number of drivers. 2 channels mean front and left and right speakers. When you see 5 channel, it means 2 speakers in the front (left and right,) center, and two rear left and speaker. Most you will see an option for is 7. I'm sure you already know, but soundbars simulate these speakers
So if they say two channels, it means only two speakers WITHIN the soundbar? Doesn't seem like a lot? And stupid question, but I'm assuming 4 channels mean that the soundbar will emit louder volume than a 2 channel one?
I wouldn't say within. Soundbars trick our ears into believing it's true surround sound. These days they are quite impressive. I use a big ass receiver and 5 speakers (though i can do 7), but if I were to get surround sound today I'd probably get a soundbar....particularly since I also have a Samsung TV and it does not work well with my Sony receiver. I hate that one connect box with a passion.
It won't be louder it will just sound different. Let's say you get the 2(don't). It will sound like you have physical speakers on each side of the TV.
Now let's say you get the 5.1. It will simulate sound to appear like you have speakers on each side of the tv, one in the center, and two behind your head
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and the .1 is the number of subwoofers. so 7.2 would be 7 speakers, 2 subs
Is a subwoofer necessary? I thought it was like an external stereo system.
It's basically your bass and it does add a lot to the sound. I thought they were unnecessary with a soundbar, but maybe that isn't the case. I'd have to research this. I will say monoprice produces a top end sub for an inexpensive price if it ends up necessary or desired
Only because 5/7 channel sounds so awesome. I can't go back to regular sound after experiencing surround sound. It enhances everything you watch or play if you play videogames.
I don't think y=brand will be an issue. I mentioned my problem with my sony receiver, but the receiver handles audio/video and samsung thinks the tv should handle all that with the one connect box and I constantly have to switch the video input. It's a headache, but you are just using this for sound so you should be good.
As far as which to get, budget will dictate that. I know Vizio makes very good ones for half the price (like $150) of their competitors
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Final question: any brand that you recommend? And does it matter that I have a Samsung TV? Will a Samsung soundbar work better with a Samsung TV or does it not matter?
I don't think y=brand will be an issue. I mentioned my problem with my sony receiver, but the receiver handles audio/video and samsung thinks the tv should handle all that with the one connect box and I constantly have to switch the video input. It's a headache, but you are just using this for sound so you should be good.
As far as which to get, budget will dictate that. I know Vizio makes very good ones for half the price (like $150) of their competitors
This is the Vizio one I'm considering buying - ( New Window )
This is the Vizio one I'm considering buying - ( New Window )
Looks good. Has all the practical features. If you just want stereo sound, it will be hard to beat that price/quality combo
For that price, for a Bose device, I didn't think I could go wrong.
I had a basic Samsung soundbar before this one and it made a difference for sure. But the Vizio I have sounds awesome. I don't typically crank it up super loud, but it will get really loud if need be.
I forget the exact model I have, I'll have to look, but I got it about a year ago.
Yamaha 207 was the best bag for the buck for me. Sounds absolutely fantastic and the simulated surround sound during movies is pretty incredible